Architecture Web Resources - Assembled by Jeanne Brown, of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas School of Architecture, this no frills site is full of information, including one of the largest collections of architectural links on the Internet. Pssst.... my favorite Web site is listed under "B" in the index;-)
American Institute of Architects - The AIA Web site has recently undergone a complete renovation. The new site contains a wealth of information about building design and construction management. While most of the information is geared toward professional Architects and those in the architectural profession, the site also contains information for the consumer -- unfortunately, as of this writing, much of the residential consumer information appears to still be in a transition stage from the old AIA site. When it is complete, consumers should be able to learn what Architects do, what professional qualifications they must generaly have, how to select an Architect for your specific project, how to work with an Architect, common fee structures, architectural terms, as well as, find links to local AIA Architectural firms and local AIA chapters.
Consumer's Guide to Hiring an Architect - Information about finding and selecting an architect, keeping records, what should be included in a contract for design services, and what to do if (when;-) problems arise. This document is provided by the California Board of Architectural Examiners, so it pertains specifically to the use of architects registered in the state of California. However, much of the information would be applicable to projects in other states.
Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture - A non-profit association founded in 1912 that represents more than 250 educational institutions throughout the United States and Canada, which offer architectural programs. Check the membership page for a list of architecture schools.
American Institute of Building Design - The AIBD is a nationally recognized association, specializing in residential design, with professional and associate members in 47 states, Canada, Europe, Asia, and Australia. Their Website contains information about becoming a member, minumum plan standards (a good resource for those drawing their own house plans), as well as, links to local societies and individual members.
National Council of Building Design Certification - The NCBDC is the result of a program, created in the 1950's by the American Institute of Building Design, the purpose of which was to evaluate the professional members of the AIBD and provide the public with some assurances of the qualifications of its members. Since then, the Council has become a separate organization "whose sole purpose is to create and administer the national certification examination" to "any qualified building designer, regardless of their affiliation with any association" who desires to become a Certified Professional Building Designer (CPBD).
American Society of Landscape Architects - The ASLA site is mainly for members, however you can use their site to search for landscape architects in your area and learn more about the history and practice of landscape architecture.
American Society of Golf Course Architects - the ASGCA is "a non-profit organization comprised of leading golf course designers in the United States and Canada. Each member is actively involved in the design of new courses and the renovation of older courses."
Architectural Graphic Standards - A must have for every building or design professional. This is the industry standard building design and construction resource, of which every architect is very familiar... and which more builders should read. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and edited by the American Institute of Architects, this book (and/or CD-ROM) contains detailed specifications, drawings, guidelines and other information about residential, commercial, industrial, landscape, and institutional design and approved construction methods. Yes, it's expensive, but it contains specific information about virtually any design or construction project - and it is much less costly than a lawsuit;-)
Check current bookstore prices using the following links:
Cyburbia - a human-edited Web index, created and maintained by a professional urban planner, which contains selective links to resources dealing with planning, urbanism, growth, and sprawl in the built environment.
The Not So Big House - Sarah Susanka is the nationally recognized residential architect who, along with Kira Obolensky, wrote a very popular book that is making the case for "bigger isn't better". The Not So Big House Web site features information about the book, the theories of building only what you need, sustainable and renewable resources, as well as, information about working with an architect. They are also assembling a list of architects who design residential buildings. However, you are reminded that it is your responsiblity to check references and review their work.
Read what other people are saying about Sarah's books:
ProFile on the Web - A "search engine for locating architecture firms and businesses in the United States" by firm name, location, key personnel, focus areas, and/or services.
Homebuilding Bookstore - Find a book on architects, architecture, home design, house style, universal design, special construction techniques, and related residential design and construction topics.
CADD Software - Download demo programs and trial versions of 3D home design software, landscape software, and professional level CADD programs. Try before you buy is very important when software costs hundreds or thousands of dollars.
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